1966 AC Cobra vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 AC Cobra would be higher. At 6,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 AC Cobra (410 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 348 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 AC Cobra weights approximately 337 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 AC Cobra is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1966 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1966 AC Cobra (651 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 547 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1966 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 1966 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 AC Cobra | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cobra | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6997 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 410 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 651 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2410 mm |
